A veteran learns about services through Veterans Affairs during an event at the Indiana National Guard Armory in Franklin on April 26. Legislation known as the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act — the PACT Act — increases benefits for veterans exposed to toxic materials during service.
Submitted photo
Veterans have until Wednesday to file a PACT Act claim — or quickly submit an intent to file — in order to receive benefits backdated to Aug. 10, 2022.
The PACT Act — the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 – expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. This includes veterans who served in the Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars, as well as post-9/11 combat veterans.
Dozens of cancers and respiratory illnesses contracted in specific geographical regions are now considered presumptive conditions by the VA including melanoma, lymphoma, COPD, emphysema and more.
Veteran Health Indiana is conducting toxic exposure screenings. Veterans currently enrolled in VA health care can get screened at their next appointment. Veterans not enrolled can simply apply for care and/or file a disability claim online.
Veterans who are not ready to file a disability claim can simply submit an intent to file by calling the VA at 800-827-1000. For more information, go to va.gov/PACT.
